2:00 pm - 4:00 pm • Tucson 37 Room
Industry & Producer Services Group

A report showing signs of a positive trend in National Cattlemen’s Beef Association (NCBA) membership set a positive tone for Friday’s gathering of the Industry and Producer Services Group. Comprised of producers active in the Membership, Producer Communication, and Producer Services committees, the Group coordinates NCBA revenue functions with delivery of services to members and state affiliates.

NCBA membership has declined in recent years, from 36,701 members in fiscal year 2000, to 26,564 in fiscal year 2003. However, the current tally shows an increase of some 400 members. According to Melanie Daye, director of membership services, the bigger story is the turnaround in membership revenue. Dues revenue for the first quarter of fiscal year 2004 is up by nearly $90,000 over the same period last year.

Daye said a strategy for developing the association’s membership base will focus on regaining dropped memberships as well as recruiting new members. Along with utilization of volunteer leaders and the creation of two new membership-oriented staff positions, the strategy includes implementation of information programs highlighting the benefits of NCBA involvement.

Also discussed was the creation of additional membership categories for producers with small cattle operations and junior members, such as high school and college students.

Members of the group also discussed the need for further development of producer communication and education programs. Mentioned specifically was the need for continued, but expanded, education in the areas of animal handling and care, animal identification and tracking, beef quality assurance training, and the monitoring and management of emerging animal diseases. Also noted was the need to promote a clear understanding among producers regarding the differences between NCBA policy programs supported by dues revenue and promotion programs funded by the beef checkoff.

— by Troy Smith